Chennai, 21 December (H.S.) : Chief Minister MK Stalin on Sunday launched a sharp attack on AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami for his silence regarding the central government's alleged attempts to weaken the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act.

Addressing a public gathering in Tirunelveli, the Chief Minister criticized the Union government for gradually winding down the scheme, describing the move as a historic blunder that threatens the livelihood of countless rural households.

Stalin highlighted that Tamil Nadu is currently forced to bear a significant financial burden as the central funding for this scheme has been reduced. He noted that the state is now required to cover forty percent of the costs, a sharp departure from the earlier hundred percent central funding model.

In response to these changes, the Chief Minister announced that the DMK would organize a statewide protest on December twenty four to condemn the central government's actions and protect the interests of rural workers.

Lashing out at the Leader of the Opposition, Stalin questioned Palaniswami's claims of being a genuine farmer while remaining silent on an issue that directly affects the rural workforce. He accused the AIADMK leader of being ready to support the NDA’s moves even when they go against the welfare of the farming community.

The Chief Minister also used the platform to showcase the achievements of the Dravidian model government, mentioning that the monthly assistance of one thousand rupees for women has significantly improved living standards across the state.

During the event, the Chief Minister inaugurated thirty three development projects worth over two hundred thirty five crore rupees and laid the foundation for eleven new infrastructure works.

He also distributed welfare assistance to more than forty five thousand beneficiaries and flagged off fifteen new bus services. Stalin asserted that despite obstacles from the Centre, Tamil Nadu remains a leader in growth and expressed confidence in his party's victory in the upcoming twenty twenty six elections.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary